Overview of Kalash
Kalash Camp lies in the Chulkathi-1 Block of the South 24 Parganas Division. It’s popular with visitors entering the Sundarbans from Namkhana or Ramganga. Kalash Island sits further south at the estuary of the River Matla. Landing on the beach is currently prohibited; visitors enjoy the beach’s beauty from the boat, planned around tide timings.
Location: South 24 Parganas Division, near Matla estuary
Access: Boat only; common starts: Namkhana, Ramganga, Jharkhali
Permits: Issued at Jharkhali or Kaikhali; Tripishq arranges
Highlights: Watchtower (camp), coastal birding, Olive Ridley nesting season
Best Time: October–March (calmer seas & better visibility)
Stay: No tourist stay at camp; overnight on boat/launch
Wildlife & Nature
- Olive Ridley turtles nest on Kalash beach in winter (viewed from boat only)
- Coastal birds & uncommon waders; look for the Great Stone-curlew (Great Thick-knee)
- Expansive estuary scenery, tidal creeks, and mangrove edges
Things to Do at Kalash
- Birdwatching around Kalash Island from your boat
- Visit the Kalash Camp watchtower (subject to permissions)
- Time your cruise with tides for the best beach views
- Sunrise/sunset estuary photography
Nearby Attractions
- Bonnie Camp (highest watchtower in Sundarbans)
- Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project
- Haliday & Lothian Wildlife Sanctuaries
Travel Tips
- Secure permits & recognized guides via Tripishq
- Rivers can be wavy—use larger/sturdy boats, especially Apr–Sep
- Beach landing is prohibited; view Kalash beach from the boat
- Plan around tides for optimal visibility at the beach
Gallery
Permit & Access Info
Entry permissions are issued by Jharkhali Range Office or Kaikhali Forest Office. Kalash can be approached from Namkhana, Ramganga, or Jharkhali (all 3–4 hrs from Kolkata by road), then by boat. From Jharkhali, boat time to Kalash is typically ~3.5–4 hrs depending on tides. Tripishq arranges permits, licensed guides, and AC/Non-AC boats.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kalash Camp & Kalash Island
1. Where is Kalash Camp?
It’s in the South 24 Parganas Forest Division of Sundarbans, accessible only by hired boat/launch.
2. How can Kalash Camp be reached?
Approach from Namkhana, Ramganga, or Jharkhali (3–4 hrs by road from Kolkata), then continue by boat. Entry permissions are required.
3. Is Kalash Camp the same as Kalash Island?
No. Kalash Camp is the forest camp with a watchtower; Kalash Island is the estuary beach further south (boat-only, no landing).
4. Where are the boat starting points?
Namkhana, Ramganga, Canning, Sonakhali, Godhkhali, and Jharkhali. Boats operate only with prior bookings.
5. Can I hire a boat in advance?
There’s no organized on-spot rental. Tripishq arranges licensed boats, permits, and guides.
6. How far is Kalash from Godhkhali?
Typically: Godhkhali ➜ Jharkhali by boat (≈1.5–2 hrs), then Jharkhali ➜ Kalash (≈3.5–4 hrs), depending on tides.
7. What can I combine with Kalash?
Bonnie Camp, Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project, plus Haliday & Lothian Wildlife Sanctuaries—especially on Namkhana-side itineraries.
8. How many days do I need?
Allow at least 2–3 days (boat overnights) to explore the Kalash circuit and nearby creeks.
9. Best time to visit?
October–March for calmer waters. April–September requires sturdy boats; operations depend on weather/tides.
10. Can I get down on the beach?
No. Landing on Kalash beach is prohibited. You’ll enjoy the beach views from the boat only.
